Actress Uzo Aduba recently shared a message of resilience and inclusivity while receiving a coveted award at SCADTVfest on Feb. 6, 2025.
Addressing a packed SCADshow Theater in Atlanta, Aduba spoke passionately about the strength found in diversity and the power of storytelling.
“Our differences are not weaknesses but strengths. The richness of our stories, the diversity of our characters, the power of our art—all of it comes from embracing what makes us unique,” she said. “You bring your superpower, value, and uniqueness to the table. Don’t let anyone tell you differently.”
Aduba was presented with The Hollywood Reporter’s Trailblazer Award by fourth-year SCAD acting student Samaria Williams, who praised her commitment to authenticity and empathy in her craft.
Following the ceremony, Aduba debuted a preview of her latest project, The Residence, an eight-episode murder mystery from Shondaland premiering on Netflix on March 20.
A post-screening panel featured executive producer Betsy Beers and cast members Jason Lee, Bronson Pinchot, and Susan Kelechi Watson. The series follows eccentric detective Cordelia Cupp (played by Aduba) as she investigates the murder of the White House’s head usher (Giancarlo Esposito). The cast and producers discussed the growing popularity of ensemble whodunit stories, with Beers noting their interactive appeal:
“We’re all nosy. There’s something so enticing about trying to figure out whodunnit.”
Reflecting on her own journey, Aduba recalled growing up in a traditional Nigerian household, initially planning a career in law before a teacher encouraged her to explore the arts.
“A light bulb went off, and I said, ‘Oh, that’s what I’m supposed to do.’ That’s why I shout out teachers—they have such an incredible way of impacting your soul,” she said.
SCADTVfest, now in its 13th year, celebrates television with panels and events featuring talent from Shogun, Cobra Kai, Stranger Things, The Amazing Race, and more. The Hollywood Reporter’s Trailblazer Award was launched in 2023 to honor artists who amplify underrepresented stories. Previous recipients include Niecy Nash, Matt Bomer, Jean Smart, David Oyelowo, and America Ferrera.
Aduba, a three-time Emmy winner known for Orange Is the New Black, continues to make an impact with groundbreaking roles, including her portrayal of Shirley Chisholm in Mrs. America and the lead role in HBO’s In Treatment. In 2024, she released her memoir, The Road Is Good: How a Mother’s Strength Became a Daughter’s Purpose, and serves as Heifer International’s first celebrity ambassador to Africa.
